Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a striking, snow-white mushroom that grows as a single shaggy pom-pom rather than the usual cap and stem. It is one of the most rewarding — and forgiving — varieties you can grow in your Flush.
What to expect
Instead of a cap, Lion’s Mane forms a rounded cushion covered in soft, cascading spines that lengthen as it matures. The flavour is mild, sweet and distinctly seafood-like, often compared to crab or lobster, and the texture is meaty and tender once cooked. It is wonderful torn into chunks and pan-fried in butter until golden, or used as a plant-based stand-in for crab or scallops. Little Acre rates it as a beginner variety, so it is a great place to start.
Growing in your Flush
In Basic mode, choose the Lion’s Mane preset and the cabinet holds 19°C, 88% humidity and around 750 ppm CO₂ for you. In Advanced mode, set those same targets from Set targets on the Home screen.
Lion’s Mane likes plenty of fresh air. The low CO₂ target keeps it forming a single, tidy globe with long spines; if CO₂ runs high it branches into a coral-like, antlered shape instead. Give it moderate ambient light to guide even growth, and expect around two to three weeks to your first flush. Harvest once the spines have lengthened to roughly a centimetre and while the mushroom is still bright white.
Harvest & beyond
To harvest, cradle the whole cushion and twist it gently away from the block, or slice it off cleanly at the base. Cook it fresh for the best flavour, or refrigerate for a few days. Rest the block back in the Flush afterwards and it will often push a second, smaller flush a couple of weeks later.